New Norms, Nehemiah, and the Theology of Anti-climax

The pandemic forced us all to change. At River East, this meant shifting our worship online and connecting digitally. For many, this was a significant shift, and we longed for a time we could return to gather in our sanctuary.

That time has come! But… is it exactly as we expected it? So much has changed over the past few months, and new norms might not yet feel normal.

The ancient story of Nehemiah may hold resonance for us, we who return to a familiar space but can’t shake an unfamiliar situation. As one tasked to revitalize his beloved city, Nehemiah found that things are not always what they seem. May God give us the patience, strength, and creativity to follow that path again today.